Bonneville glad friendships survived Downton run

Hugh Bonneville jokes he didn't expect to still be talking to Michelle Dockery by the end of Downton Abbey.

The British actor has played the Earl of Grantham on the period drama since it first started, with Michelle taking on the role of his daughter. With its sixth and final series drawing closer, the cast have taken the time to reflect upon their experiences filming as the show has been presented with a special award from BAFTA.

"I did my last scene yesterday with Michelle Dockery, who plays Lady Mary, and we were reflecting on our very first scene which was back in 2010 and never thought that we'd be here six years later and that we're still talking to each other!" Hugh laughed to ITV.

He also added to the BBC that it would have been a "misstep" if creator Julian Fellowes "squeezed out" another series.

It was an enjoyable experience for fans to see those from upstairs and downstairs united on the red carpet in London, UK, last night.

Joanne Froggatt, who plays lady's maid Anna Bates, is sad to say farewell but pleased by what she's taking with her.

"We've been so fortunate to work on a wonderful job with wonderful people for six years, so I will walk away from this with only fond memories and yeah... it's been amazing," she smiled.

To ensure loyal followers of the show aren't left disappointed by the final episode, set to air in the UK on Christmas Day this year, Elizabeth McGovern (Countess of Grantham) promises that Julian has given each character their own goodbye. The cast are remaining tight-lipped about the end scenes, but Hugh did offer a humorous scenario.

"OK I can share something with you; the spaceship in the last scene is amazing!" he quipped.